MANTOM FEELING FINE

11 March 2015

Andrew Poole

Midfield man back in action...

THERE was a welcome sight on Tuesday afternoon as Sam Mantom returned to action for the reserves.

The midfield man has been out since November was a recurrence of a troublesome knee injury that has severely limited his participation this season, but last year's Player of the Season came through 65 minutes and admitted afterwards that he is feeling fantastic.

"It's a massive step," he said. "It was weird being back out on the pitch but I thoroughly enjoyed it. To be back playing again is fantastic for me and I want to push on now.

"I've not played since November and it's been a nightmare, to be honest. I've seen surgeons and specialists, but we've been able to put a plan together and I am delighted that I am back in action now.

"It's the best I've felt in a long time; I wanted to play the whole game on Tuesday, but the Gaffer and Richard O'Kelly had to pull me back, under the instruction of Jon Whitney.

"The lads are saying that I've timed it perfectly with Wembley just around the corner. Of course, it would be nice to be involved in that game, but the main thing is that I'm back involved again.

"There are two big games still to play before the Final where we need to be able to turn our results around. From a personal point of view, I want to be able to show the Gaffer that I am ready to do a job."